U.S. Under-18 MNT Comes From Behind to Top PDA

ZARAPETH, N.J. (April 24, 2008) -- The U.S. Under-18 Men's National Team came from behind to defeat Development Academy club PDA, 2-1, in a scrimmage at PDA's training facility in Zarapeth, N.J.

PDA's Ryan Finley converted a penalty kick in the 34th minute after a Norris White was called for a foul inside the box.

The U.S. evened the score just 10 minutes into the second half. After receiving the ball at midfield, Chris Ortega carried it deep into his attacking end and played a cross right to the head of an unmarked John Fitzpatrick, who was able to beat PDA goalkeeper Rafael Diaz.

Minutes before the final whistle, Amobi Okugo took a pass from Eder Arreola on the endline and beat two defenders with his first touch. Okugo then played an outswinger across the goal mouth for Tristan Bowen, who scored the second header goal of the game for the U.S., helping them to a 2-1 win.

The U.S. Under-18 MNT will round out its week-long camp with a final scrimmage against PDA on Saturday, April 25.